1961 Austin A vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1961 Austin A is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | A |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
